Wednesday, May 5, 2010

Where is the joy?

Flooded Nashville

Where is the joy in a city that is flooded, in damage that is left behind?

Where is the joy in the lives that were lost, some due to carelessness?

Where is the joy in homes that are gone – swept away by the floods or so badly damaged that destroying what is left to rebuilt will be the only option?

Where is the joy in losing everything, to starting over again?

We are alive.  That is my joy.  We will grieve those who were lost, we will clean up, we will start over, we will rebuilt or repair, and we will gain more stuff.  And we will do it because that is who we are.  We are a state built on volunteering, helping, and facing more adversity than should be allowed, but we face it.  We invite it into our homes when it knocks at the door, fix it a glass of sweet tea, and face it with a smile on our faces, because that’s what we know. 

The next few months and years will be difficult, but that’s okay – this state can overcome it.  I am proud of my state.

Tennessee
Until next time,
HeatherLeah